ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities have detained a stepfather accused of brutally assaulting his four-year-old stepson in a disturbing case of child abuse that has left the victim in critical condition.
The suspect, identified as Jay-ar Habibon, is currently under police custody following the incident that occurred on Friday in Barangay Mampang. The young victim remains confined in a hospital, where he is being treated for severe injuries and is reported to be in a delicate condition.
According to initial reports from barangay officials and investigators, Habibon allegedly subjected the child to repeated physical abuse, including forceful slapping and throwing the boy, based on eyewitness accounts. The severity of the attack prompted immediate action from local officials, who rushed the child to the hospital for urgent medical attention.
Authorities revealed that Habibon is now detained at a facility operated by the Zamboanga City Police Office. He is set to face multiple charges, including violations of Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, as well as serious physical injuries and frustrated infanticide. The charges are being jointly pursued by the child’s relatives and barangay officials from Irawan.
Investigators are also looking into the possibility that the suspect was under the influence of illegal drugs at the time of the incident, which may have contributed to the violent outburst.
In a further development, it was disclosed that Habibon also physically assaulted the child’s mother during the same incident. She sustained bruises and injuries but is now safe and recovering.
The case has sparked outrage among local residents and renewed calls for stronger enforcement of child protection laws and community vigilance against domestic abuse.
Police authorities assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that justice will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.